The Eagles started their Champions League campaign with a disappointing 53-run defeat against New South Wales on Friday.

The Australian champions lost opener Phil Hughes early, but were off to a great start thanks to David Warner and Simon Katich as they put together a 79-run partnership. Moises Henriques (27) and Ben Rohrer (22) continued the onslaught by scoring some quick runs.

The Eagles’ bowlers failed to trouble the Blues’ batsmen as they posted a competitive 144-6 off their allotted 20 overs.

In response, the Eagles struggled against a NSW’s formidable bowling line-up. Ryan McLaren was the only batsmen to perform with the bat as wicket continued to fall. Brett Lee and Stuart Clark were on top their game as they restricted the South Africans to 91-9.